Our 15 Favorite Grande Riviere Noire Tours & Things To Do

Grande Riviere Noire isn’t just a pretty name—it’s a prime spot for exploring Mauritius’s natural marine and coastal beauty. If you’re eager to see dolphins, whales, or just enjoy a boat trip on clear waters, this area delivers in spades.

We especially love the Black River: Dolphin Swim and Whale Watching by Speedboat, which combines the thrill of swimming with spinner or bottlenose dolphins with the chance to spot sperm whales and migrating humpbacks in season.

It offers not just a fun experience but a rare opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Plus, the snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs makes it a full-day adventure worth considering.

For those wanting a more intimate encounter, the private options stand out, such as the Private Swim with Dolphins, perfect for a family or couples craving exclusivity.

Meanwhile, the Dolphins & Whales, Private Tour Snorkeling offers a blend of private guides and scenic views, ideal for travelers who prefer tailored experiences. Whether you prefer a group outing or a private escape, Grande Riviere Noire’s tours provide options for every taste.

Below is a detailed look at the best tours and activities that make this part of Mauritius a top choice for marine adventures and scenic boat trips.

1. Black River: Dolphin Swim and Whale Watching by Speedboat

At number 1, this speedboat tour offers a comprehensive experience of the Black River coast. For about $129 per person, you’ll have the chance to swim with spinner and bottlenose dolphins in their natural environment—an experience that’s as exhilarating as it sounds.

The tour also looks out for resident sperm whales and, in season, migrating humpbacks, making it suitable for wildlife lovers and ocean enthusiasts alike. The boat is private, so you can relax and enjoy your surroundings without the crowds.

The snorkeling around colorful coral reefs adds an extra layer of enjoyment, immersing you in Mauritius’s underwater beauty.

This tour is highly rated (4.6/5 from over 500 reviews), which speaks to its popularity and reliability. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a full day of marine adventure, combining swimming, whale watching, and snorkeling in one trip. Expect a well-organized, friendly crew that shares insights about the local marine life. Bottom line: This is excellent value for a memorable, all-in-one ocean experience.

2. La Preneuse: Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling Speedboat Tour

For just $59 per person, this speedboat tour from La Preneuse combines the thrill of a high-speed cruise with the chance to interact with playful dolphins in the wild. The tour highlights include cruising along the coast with the wind in your hair and stopping at a lagoon for snorkeling among colorful fish.

The guide provides useful tips, helping you make the most of your time in the water, whether you’re a novice or an experienced snorkeler.

Rated 4.7/5 from 83 reviews, travelers rave about the friendly guides and the chance to see dolphins up close. The tour’s shorter duration makes it ideal for those with limited time but still eager for a taste of Mauritius’s marine life.

The boat’s speed and scenery make this tour more dynamic, guaranteed to leave you smiling. Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking a quick, fun, and affordable dolphin and snorkeling trip.

3. Grande Riviere Noire: Boat Tour and Swimming with Dolphins

This boat tour in Grande Riviere Noire costs around $70 per person and offers a comprehensive marine experience, including swimming with dolphins and snorkeling in their natural habitat.

The tour emphasizes learning about the dolphins as you observe and interact with them, making it both fun and educational. The boat is well-maintained, and the crew is dedicated to ensuring a respectful approach to marine wildlife.

Rated a very impressive 4.9/5 from 42 reviews, this tour is praised for its professionalism and the chance to get close to spinner and bottlenose dolphins. The onboard fresh fruits and relaxed vibe make it feel like a day with friends.

It’s ideal for families or anyone wanting a balanced mix of adventure and learning. Bottom line: An excellent choice if your priority is active interaction with dolphins in a small-group setting.

4. Southwest of Mauritius: Catamaran Cruise w/ Snorkeling

Priced at $85 per person, this catamaran cruise offers a scenic sail along the west coast, with stops at top spots like Crystal Rock, L’Harmonie, and Île aux Bénitiers. The tour provides dolphin watching in Tamarin Bay and the chance to snorkel at La Prèneuse or L’Harmonie. Plus, a delicious BBQ lunch and beverages are included, making it a perfect day of relaxation and exploration.

Rated 4.9/5 by travelers, this trip is lauded for its friendly crew and stunning vistas. The full-day format suits those who want to soak in the scenery and enjoy leisurely swimming or walking on Île aux Bénitiers.

It’s an excellent choice for families and couples alike, especially if you’re interested in a combination of sailing, snorkeling, and a beach picnic. Bottom line: This tour offers great value for a full, scenic, and well-rounded day on the water.

5. Mauritius: Private Swim with Dolphins

At number 5, this private experience costs $469 for a group and guarantees an intimate encounter with dolphins. The private swim allows you to enjoy the experience in your own group with personalized attention, making it ideal for romantic getaways or small families. Plus, you’ll snorkel over coral reefs and admire tropical fish, all in a relaxed setting.

Rated 4.7/5 by recent reviewers, it’s praised for its exclusivity and tailored approach. This tour is best for those who want a personalized experience away from crowds, with the flexibility to customize your day. The main drawback is the higher price, but for those seeking privacy, it’s well worth it. Bottom line: An excellent choice if exclusivity and comfort matter most.

6. West: Swim wz dolphins, Crystal Rock, Lunch Benitiers island

For about $72 per person, this full-day adventure is perfect for families and all ages. It combines dolphin snorkeling, a BBQ lunch on Île aux Benitiers, and visits to iconic spots like Crystal Rock. The tour runs from 7:30 am to around 2 pm, making it manageable for most travelers. Participants often comment on the stunning scenery and the chance to get close to dolphins in their natural habitat.

Rated 4.3/5, this tour offers excellent value with snorkeling gear included and opportunities for swimming and relaxing on white sandy beaches. It’s suitable for those who want a full-day, easy-paced trip with a bit of everything—dolphins, scenic views, and beach time. Bottom line: A practical, family-friendly option combining marine encounters and island chill-out.

7. Ile Aux Bénitiers: Private Catamaran Cruise w/ Gourmet Lunch

Rated 5/5 by a handful of reviews, this luxury cruise offers an unforgettable day on the water for up to 6 people, with a gourmet BBQ lunch and visits to Crystal Rock and Benitiers Island. You’ll snorkel in the blue lagoon, see wild dolphins from the boat, and relax with unlimited drinks aboard.

The small group size makes it a perfect romantic escape or special celebration. The price reflects its exclusivity, but the experience is highly personalized and luxurious. If you’re looking for a private, high-end day with excellent food and scenery, this is hard to beat. Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting privacy and premium amenities.

8. Private Dolphin Encounter and Whale Watching

This private trip, costing about $774 for up to 1 person, offers a personalized experience of both dolphin encounters and whale watching. The trip is guided by experts who focus on respectful wildlife observation and ensure a memorable interaction. You’ll snorkel among tropical fish and see whales if the season allows.

Reviewed positively (4.6/5), this tour is perfect for those who want a tailored, intimate experience and are willing to pay a premium for privacy and expert guidance. It’s best suited for serious wildlife enthusiasts or travelers celebrating a special occasion. Bottom line: For a dedicated, private encounter with Mauritius’s whales and dolphins, this tour provides a premium experience.

9. Dolphins & Whales, Private Tour Snorkeling

This private snorkeling tour costs $633 for groups up to four and combines swimming with dolphins and whales with snorkeling in the natural aquarium. The tour offers spectacular ocean views and the chance to see a variety of marine life in their natural environment.

Rated 4.3/5, it appeals to those wanting a personalized, flexible marine adventure. Its focus on wildlife observation and scenic scenery makes it a solid choice for small groups or families seeking exclusivity. The main downside is the higher cost, but it’s justified by the intimate experience. Bottom line: Best for small groups seeking a private, wildlife-focused day.

10. Private Sunset Dinner with Snorkeling on the west coast

Starting at $539 for two, this sunset cruise combines a scenic cruise, snorkeling near the Crystal Rock, and a gourmet candlelight dinner. The trip begins with a morning snorkeling adventure and concludes with a romantic sunset and dinner, making it perfect for special occasions.

Rated 5/5, this experience delivers both romance and adventure, with stunning ocean views and fine dining. It’s best suited for couples celebrating anniversaries or honeymoons. The key benefit is the combination of daytime marine activity and a romantic evening. Bottom line: A memorable, romantic package for lovers of both scenery and fine food.

11. Ile aux Benitiers: Private OCÉANE Sunset Cruise

This exclusive sunset cruise offers a peaceful sail along the west coast with snacks, drinks, and stunning sunset views. Up to 2 people can enjoy this intimate journey, ideal for couples seeking a relaxed, private experience as the sun dips below the horizon.

Rated 5/5, it emphasizes comfort and exclusivity, perfect for a special evening with a loved one. The cruise provides a chance to unwind while admiring the island’s natural beauty. It suits travelers who want a quiet, romantic escape. Bottom line: Perfect for a private, sunset-filled experience with minimal fuss.

12. Private Dolphin Watching/Swimming with Halal Lunch on Island

Costing $468 for up to 4 people, this private trip guarantees Halal food and an exclusive experience with dolphins. You’ll see dolphins in their natural habitat, snorkel on coral reefs, and even touch Crystal Rock. The tour emphasizes personalized service and respectful wildlife interactions.

Rated 5/5, it’s ideal for Muslim travelers or families seeking a tailored, Halal-friendly adventure. The focus on privacy and respect for wildlife makes it stand out. The highlight is the combination of marine encounters and cultural considerations. Bottom line: An ideal choice for those prioritizing Halal food and privacy.

13. Mauritius: Swim with Dolphins Full-Day with Lunch/Drinks

At around $96 per person, this full-day tour includes speedboat rides, dolphin watching and swimming, snorkeling at Crystal Rock, and a BBQ lunch at Ile aux Benitiers. It’s a comprehensive marine experience with flexibility.

Rated 3.9/5, it offers excellent value for those seeking a fullday marine adventure. The highlight is the combination of wildlife watching, snorkeling, and relaxing on a scenic beach. It’s suited for travelers who want a balanced, active day with plenty of photo opportunities. Bottom line: A good all-rounder for those wanting an immersive experience.

14. Mauritius: Tamarin Bay, Black River Gorges and Chamarel Tour

This tour offers a day exploring Mauritius’s inland beauty. You’ll visit Tamarin Bay for dolphin spotting, trek through Black River Gorges, and see the Seven Coloured Earth and Chamarel Waterfall. If you love combining marine and land adventures, this is a good pick.

While no review rating is provided, it’s popular among travelers interested in diverse landscapes and cultural sites. It’s best for active travelers willing to spend the day on a guided tour, with plenty of walking and sightseeing. Bottom line: A well-rounded tour for those who want a balance of nature, wildlife, and scenic drives.

15. Unforgettable Adventure with Havanah Boat!

Rated without a specified score, this Havanah Boat experience emphasizes whale sightings and providing respectful, expert-guided encounters with these giants of the sea. The focus is on enjoying marine life responsibly, making it ideal for eco-conscious travelers.

It’s perfect for those who prioritize seeing whales in their natural setting and want a memorable, responsible adventure. The guided approach ensures a safe, informative experience. Bottom line: Best suited for serious wildlife enthusiasts seeking a respectful, high-quality whale-watching trip.

How to Choose the Best Tour for You

When selecting a tour in Grande Riviere Noire, consider your budget, interests, and the type of experience you value most.

If you want to swim and snorkel with dolphins, tours like Black River: Dolphin Swim and Whale Watching or Grande Riviere Noire: Boat Tour and Swimming with Dolphins offer fantastic value. For private, exclusive experiences, options like the Private Swim with Dolphins or Gourmet Private Catamaran stand out.

If you prefer a full-day adventure with multiple stops, the Southwest of Mauritius: Catamaran Cruise or the Full-Day Dolphin Swim & Snorkel deliver comprehensive fun and scenery. Budget travelers may find the Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling Speedboat particularly appealing.

Booking early is advised, especially for popular private or small-group tours, which tend to fill quickly during peak season (May through September). Consider weather conditions—calm seas mean better wildlife sightings and snorkeling.

Final Thoughts

Grande Riviere Noire offers a wide variety of marine-focused activities and scenic boat trips. Whether you’re after a thrilling dolphin swim, a luxurious private cruise, or a scenic island excursion, there’s something to match your style and budget.

For adrenaline junkies or wildlife lovers, the Black River dolphin and whale tours are hard to beat. If privacy and luxury are your priority, the Gourmet Catamaran will make for an unforgettable day. Those traveling with family or on a budget can’t go wrong with the dolphin watching and snorkeling tours. Whatever your choice, booking ahead ensures you’ll secure your spot for these popular experiences.